The Financial Analytical Office has started applying sanctions against the most important Russian oligarch with assets in the Czech Republic. The state has blocked the accounts of Vladimir Yevtushenko, who has close ties to Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin, and seized assets worth CZK 100 million.
Vladimir Yevtushenko, a Russian billionaire, maintains covert control over an electrical components company and possesses hotels in the Czech Republic. Additionally, his companies in Russia are involved in the production and supply of weapons systems for the armed forces. Due to these activities, Yevtushenko was included in the Czech sanctions list in late June. His assets in Karlovy Vary are estimated to be worth over half a billion crowns.
Notably, Yevtushenko was present at a meeting with Putin on the day of the invasion of Ukraine, which led to the seizure of his luxurious five-star Savoy Westend hotel in Karlovy Vary by the Financial Analysis Office. The hotel has been frequented by prominent Russian politicians, artists, and businessmen, some of whom are currently on sanctions lists.
Presently, the hotel is operating on a limited basis, only accommodating guests who paid for their stays by the end of June. This situation poses a risk of job losses for the hotel employees.
In response to the situation, some members of the Ukrainian community in the city argue that despite any adverse effects, the state should not back down from imposing sanctions. They emphasize that the state should unequivocally stand for truth and firmly hold its position against those who sponsor or profit from war. Oleksandr Dombrovsky, a representative of the Ukrainian community in Karlovy Vary, expressed this sentiment.
Although the state has the authority to issue exemptions from anti-Russian sanctions, it has granted such exemptions in 33 cases so far. For example, CEZ, a company, has applied for exemptions to continue its business dealings with specific engineering firms.
